During his illustrious career, Michael Irvin established himself as one of the greatest players in NFL history. Irvin put forth historical production with the Dallas Cowboys in his 12 seasons in the league while being a vital part of the franchise’s success. That put Irvin at the top of the list for best players in the league, which put him in line to receive lucrative contracts during his time. However, the Hall of Fame wideout believes that his best years would have put him in line to garner a contract that would have topped $200 million. Not only is that highly wishful thinking, but unrealistic for Irvin to believe he could receive that deal.

Michael Irvin’s NFL career

Michael Irvin put together an incredible career that spanned 12 seasons all spent with the Cowboys.

During that stretch, Irvin earned many unique accolades, such as playing a crucial part of three Super Bowl-winning teams, selected to the Pro Bowl five times, two Second-Team All-Pro nods, and received one First-Team All-Pro selection. He truly established his legacy in the playoffs, where he earned his “Playmaker” nickname behind his impressive performances.

Irvin also finished his career ranking second in playoff history behind fellow Hall of Famer Jerry Rice in several categories with six 100-receiving yard performances, 87 receptions, and 1,315 receiving yards. Behind his skill on the field, it has led him to believe he could cash in a record-breaking deal in today’s NFL.

Michael Irvin believes he’s worth a $200 million contract

Michael Irvin has never been one to back down from a stance or belief. That also goes hand-in-hand with his incredible confidence in his ability on the football field.

Irvin made that notion clear yet again as voiced back in 2017 that he believed that if he played the prime of his career right now that he could earn a deal that would pay him $200 million, according to The Dallas Morning News.

“Right at a $200 million contract. That’s the only ranking I would understand. Right now, it’s incredible. Think about this now: You get some many great opportunities to make plays. The offense is what we want. We want offense in the league, and the rules are made for you. It’s incredible.”

Irvin was among the best at his position during his time, and it’s not farfetched at all to believe that his production wouldn’t have translated to the current era in the NFL. He does have a valid point that offense is the point of emphasis that has seen passing the ball become a much bigger part of the game plan than during his time in the 1990s.

That could have seen him put that same level production or higher now in the NFL if he played now. However, the question of him getting a $200 million is a different story.

Michael Irvin eyeballing quarterback money is delusional

Without a doubt, Michael Irvin is one of the greatest players to play the game, let alone at wide receiver. His ability on the field would have put him in a unique position to cash in significantly in the NFL.

However, other factors would be at play that would affect him negatively. He had several off-the-field incidents that could have led to significant league punishment with his scissors stabbing situation with his teammate, and drug-related issues, among others. If he had those off-the-field matters together, then he would be in line for a huge payday.

The brakes would have to be pumped there as it would be twice as much as Amari Cooper just received in his five-year, $100 million deal with the Cowboys. Meanwhile, there isn’t the same value for wide receivers that quarterbacks get as there is a significant money gap. Matt Ryan currently has the highest-paid deal at $150 million, but that total number should reach more than $200 million with Patrick Mahomes, Deshaun Watson, and Dak Prescott all in line for substantial new extensions.

That isn’t taking a shot at Irvin’s ability by any means. Still, it’s hard to envision a wide receiver getting anywhere near that much when the value at the position isn’t held anywhere near the same regard as a quarterback.